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Digibus Gloucestershire is a new and innovative project to support and connect digitally excluded communities in Gloucestershire who have been made more vulnerable since the Covid-19 pandemic began.
The so called digital divide is very real and separates the rich and the poor; affecting all ages, from school children to the unemployed to the elderly. |
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Digibus is a mobile digital lab in an accessible converted double-decker bus, fitted with computers, laptops, tablets, a 3-D printer, robotics and coding and a virtual reality system. The lab will be powered by solar and battery when the bus isn't on the move. Once on board visitors will benefit from the Digibus unique experience; accessing the curated online resources for digital courses, services and information, receive one to one tuition based on their individual needs, learn new skills and practice with the latest technologies.
As the world has become increasingly 'online' people lacking the skills or ability to access services and information are falling behind in society. In 2018 22% of the UK’s population lacked basic digital skills according to the Office for National Statistics.
As the world has become increasingly 'online' people lacking the skills or ability to access services and information are falling behind in society. In 2018 22% of the UK’s population lacked basic digital skills according to the Office for National Statistics.
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Who will Digibus help?
Digibus will make a difference to the lives of those most vulnerable in Gloucestershire; enabling users to better access relevant information and services, improve their digital skills, connect with friends and family, reduce social isolation and improve livelihoods. We expect to see a change in the number of people gaining digital skills for the purpose of managing their lives more effectively. |
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The bus will travel throughout the county, focusing on the areas and communities where individuals have the lowest engagement with the internet. An onboard trainer will provide personalised sessions for visitors so they can learn as much or as little as they like; whether it's how to order their medication or groceries online, chat to friends and family, stay safe using the internet, or finding out about important services or social networks that can provide further support. For those that want to be inspired they can experience virtual reality or try out coding or even robotics! Learning is completely flexible and tailored to the individual.
We are excited to continue developing the Digbus concept and plan to design and implement a Digibus in Africa which will visit rural and remote communities to deliver and improve digital access and education.
We are excited to continue developing the Digbus concept and plan to design and implement a Digibus in Africa which will visit rural and remote communities to deliver and improve digital access and education.
When is it coming?
Digibus Gloucestershire will start its tour of the county late summer 2021, for one year. It will visit many venues including community centres, village halls, sports clubs and many more. Visitors can book a free Digibus experience session to learn or improve their digital skills and knowledge. More information about how to book will be coming soon..
Digibus Gloucestershire will start its tour of the county late summer 2021, for one year. It will visit many venues including community centres, village halls, sports clubs and many more. Visitors can book a free Digibus experience session to learn or improve their digital skills and knowledge. More information about how to book will be coming soon..
